I Still Know What You Did Last Summer – Film Review

I Still Know What You Did Last Summer is a classic example of a horror movie sequel that struggles to capture the essence of its predecessor. Released in 1998, this film, directed by Danny Cannon, attempted to cash in on the success of the original 1997 hit. However, despite its promising premise and a talented cast, the movie falls flat, failing to recapture the tension and suspense that made the first film a cult favorite.

One of the major disappointments of I Still Know What You Did Last Summer lies in its plot, or rather the lack thereof. The story picks up with Julie James (played by Jennifer Love Hewitt), the survivor of the first film, trying to move on with her life after the traumatic events of the previous summer. However, the scriptwriters seemed to struggle with generating a compelling narrative this time around. The film resorts to tired horror movie clichés, sending Julie and her friends to a secluded island where they become targets of a vengeful fisherman. The plot lacks originality, recycling elements from countless other slasher films without adding any fresh perspective or depth to the story.

Moreover, the characters in I Still Know What You Did Last Summer feel like cardboard cutouts of typical horror movie archetypes. Julie, once a strong and relatable protagonist, is reduced to a mere shadow of her former self. The character development is practically nonexistent, making it difficult for the audience to invest in their fates. The supporting cast, including Brandy Norwood and Freddie Prinze Jr., also struggle to breathe life into their roles, as they are confined by the limitations of the poorly written script.

Another notable flaw of the film is its reliance on cheap jump scares and graphic violence instead of genuine suspense. The original film succeeded in building a palpable sense of dread, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats with its well-executed suspenseful sequences. However, I Still Know What You Did Last Summer opts for a more straightforward, gore-filled approach that feels forced and lacks the subtlety that made the first movie memorable. The scares are predictable, and the tension is often diffused by poorly timed comedic moments, undermining the film’s attempts to create a genuinely frightening atmosphere.

Furthermore, the cinematography and special effects in I Still Know What You Did Last Summer are mediocre at best. The island setting, which could have been utilized to create a visually stunning and eerie backdrop, feels underutilized and uninspired. The film lacks the visual flair that could have compensated for its weak storyline, leaving viewers with little to appreciate in terms of aesthetics.

While the film’s soundtrack does manage to create some ambiance with its eerie melodies and suspenseful tunes, it is not enough to salvage the overall viewing experience. A compelling soundtrack can enhance the atmosphere of a horror film, but in this case, it only serves as a minor distraction from the film’s numerous shortcomings.

I Still Know What You Did Last Summer fails to live up to the legacy of its predecessor. Its lackluster plot, one-dimensional characters, and uninspired scares make it a forgettable entry in the slasher genre. Fans of the original film may find themselves sorely disappointed by this lackluster sequel, which lacks the wit, suspense, and originality that made the first movie a beloved classic. Unless you are a die-hard fan of the franchise, it’s advisable to skip this installment and revisit the far superior original film for a genuine dose of 90s horror nostalgia.